BLOG #5: Pandemic Stories: Conversations with Miss Sibongile Mkhize (not her real name). 

By Zakes Hlatshwayo

Covid-19, lockdowns, the loss of income has hurt both famers and farmworkers. Sibongile Mkhize shares her life journey. She talks about being laid off, being responsible for an extended family and the disappointments of failed state social support.

Read more here. 

BLOG #4: Aborted "End SARS" protests and its anticipated implications on youth out-migration in Nigeria

by Dr Samuel Okunade

In this blog, Dr Okunade discusses the impact of the "End SARS" protests in Nigeria on the migration of young Nigerians, and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the continued debate on open versus closed borders. 

Read more here. 

BLOG #3: Evidence, narratives and failure to adhere to the Hippocratic oath

by Professor Robin Crewe 

In this blog, Professor Robin Crewe discusses three interventions implemented by the South African government to minimise the effects of Covid-19 in South Africa and the scietific evidence (or lack thereof) that informed the policy interventions. 

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BLOG #2: A time to rise like lions in the battle against Covid-19

by Professor Tinyiko Maluleke

This blog entry is a republication of Professor Tinyiko Maluleke's contribution ot News24 on South Africa's early response to the Covid-19 pandemic in March and April 2020. 

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World Food Day Blog #4 Partnerships and Capacity Building for Sustainable Development

by Chiekh Mbow

In this blog, Prof Cheikh Mbow, Director of Future Africa, discusses the opportunities that exist on the African continent for improving food security. Africa has all the resources to achieve Zero Hunger. Prof Mbow highlights the role of Future Africa in creating a platform for researchers from across the continent to engage in transdisciplinary research that connects research to end-users.

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World Food Day Blog #3 World Food Day: A Science Communicator's Perspective

by Mologadi Makwela

In this blog, Mologadi Makwela – Manager: Communication, Marketing, and Engagement at the Centre of Excellence in Food Security chats to FSNet-Africa about the role of science communication in advancing food security and nutrition. Makwela highlights the challenges faced in bridging the gap between research and action.

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World Food Day Blog #2 African Food Systems: Science and Partnerships for Impact

by Prof Lindiwe Sibanda

One of the biggest challenges that we face globally, and particularly in Africa, is the challenge to end hunger. As we approach World Food Day on 16 October, it is an important time to reflect on science and partnerships to transform African food systems and tackle the challenge of food security in Africa. We cannot do this without the right partnerships – in particular, science partnerships.

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 World Food Day Blog #1 African Action for Zero Hunger: FSNet-Africa launches World Food Day Campaign

by Prof Frans Swanepoel, Prof Claire Quinn and Dr Madzivhandila 

Ahead of World Food Day on 16 October, UP’s Food Systems Research Network for Africa (FSNet-Africa) will focus on African Action for Zero Hunger over the next 2 weeks. In this first post, the FSNet leaders discuss the FSNet partnership. They outline the activities of the 16-day campaign which draws on FSNet-Africa’s network of researchers, thought leaders, and grassroots stakeholders to share insights and highlight key policy actions to achieve Zero Hunger in Africa.

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BLOG #1: Sand Extraction Wreaking Havoc along the Manyame River

by Dr Tafadzwa Mushonga

Cities around the world are growing. Consequently there is an ever-growing need for housing construction. Sand is a major construction resource, the source of which is embroiled with conflict, and often left damaged beyond repair. While bringing shelter, dignity and security to people, sand extraction is wreaking havoc.

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